Trade Lane Manager - Africa - Freight Forwarding
Location: Germany (flexible - can be based anywhere in Germany)
This client, a high-performing international freight forwarder with strong ties to a global logistics leader, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Trade Lane Manager to lead and expand their operations across the African continent. With a strong focus on air and ocean freight, this role offers the opportunity to shape the future of their Africa trade lane strategy and contribute to continued growth in a dynamic, global environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Trade Lane Strategy & Development
Design, implement, and optimise trade lane strategies for air. Ocean freight between Africa and global markets, ensuring alignment with the client's broader logistics objectives. - Business Development
Identify and pursue new business opportunities across key African markets, building a robust pipeline and expanding the client's customer base in sectors such as mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and retail. - Customer Relationship Management
Cultivate strong relationships with clients, agents, and partners across Africa, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and long-term collaboration. - Market Intelligence
Monitor regional trends, regulatory changes, and competitive activity to inform strategic decisions and identify emerging opportunities. - Operational Excellence
Collaborate with internal teams to ensure seamless execution of freight operations, maintaining high service standards and cost efficiency. - Cross-functional Collaboration
Work closely with sales, operations, and customer service teams to deliver integrated solutions and support business growth. - Reporting & Analysis
Provide regular performance reports and insights to senior management, highlighting successes, challenges, and areas for improvement.
Qualifications & Skills
- Experience
Minimum 5 years in international freight forwarding, with a strong focus on African markets and air/ocean freight. - Network
Proven ability to build and manage relationships with clients and partners across multiple African countries. - Languages
Fluent in English and German is essential. Additional languages such as French, are an advantage. - Communication & Negotiation
Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. - Analytical Thinking
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
Additional Attributes
- Adaptability
Comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-changing environment with diverse cultural and regulatory landscapes. - Growth Mindset
Entrepreneurial spirit with a passion for driving innovation and continuous improvement. - Team Player
Collaborative and inclusive, with a global mindset and the ability to work across functions and geographies.
What This Client Offers
- Career Development
A clear path for progression within a globally recognised logistics group. - Dynamic Environment
A vibrant, growth-oriented culture with opportunities to make a real impact. - Competitive Package
Attractive salary, performance-based incentives, and comprehensive benefits. - Global Exposure
Work with international teams and clients, contributing to global trade and development.
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your resume so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customized support on how to optimize your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.